Can I Still Drive When the Car Shows 'Change Engine Oil Immediately'?
2 Answers
When the vehicle displays 'change engine oil immediately,' you can still drive for a short period, but it is recommended to replace the oil promptly. This can help extend the engine's lifespan to some extent. Reasons why the dashboard shows 'Please change engine oil immediately': The oil has reached the end of its service life and needs immediate replacement; if the oil has already been changed but the message still appears, it may be because the oil change reminder was not reset after the oil was replaced; if the oil has been changed and the reminder reset, but the message persists, there may be an issue with the dashboard or the vehicle's computer. It is advisable to have it checked as soon as possible. Steps to change the engine oil: Lift the car, remove the underbody cover, and place a container of about 10 liters under the oil drain plug; unscrew the drain plug, use an air gun to blow into the oil filler port for two minutes, then tighten the drain plug after draining and wipe it with a paper towel to check for leaks; reinstall the underbody cover and lower the car, then use a funnel to add new oil through the filler port.
As a seasoned driver with decades of experience, I've encountered the 'Change Oil Immediately' warning light on multiple occasions. Typically, the car can still be driven a short distance under this condition—for instance, if you're on the highway, you can slowly proceed to the next service area. However, never attempt long-distance driving or procrastinate. I recall one instance when I drove over a hundred kilometers after the light came on, only to end up with an overheated engine and repair costs running into thousands. Nowadays, I pull over immediately to pop the hood and check the dipstick. If the oil level is low, I top it up with fresh oil as a temporary measure, but this is merely a stopgap solution. The warning light indicates that the oil is either too old or contaminated, leading to reduced lubrication performance. Continuing to drive poses significant risks, including accelerated internal engine wear, which could result in seized pistons or failed bearings. Therefore, I strongly advise heading to a reputable repair shop as soon as possible for an oil change—don't let small savings lead to major headaches. Make it a habit to check your oil every six months or 5,000 kilometers to prevent such issues.
